Cheesy scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! Thin slices of potatoes get layered with a rich cheese sauce, creating a warm dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving these at gatherings—they’re always a hit! Plus, it’s super easy to make; just layer and bake until bubbly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite because they have a creamy texture. Russet potatoes work too but might be a bit starchy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up! I often add Monterey Jack for creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider using a lactose-free cheese or even a nut-based cheese alternative.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk provides a rich base, but heavy cream takes it to the next level if you want extra richness. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, keeping in mind they can change the taste slightly.
How Can I Make the Perfect Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce is where the magic happens! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by melting the butter and cooking the garlic; this builds flavor.
- When whisking in flour, make sure it doesn’t clump. Stir until you see a light golden color, which adds a nice flavor.
- Add milk slowly while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Once you add the cheese, stir until it’s fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt if necessary!
With these tips, your cheese sauce will be velvety smooth and full of flavor, perfect for your scalloped potatoes!
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cheesy dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to bake. With a little patience for it to rest afterward, you can have a beautiful, warm dish ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, butter a 9×13 inch baking dish (or similar casserole dish). This will help prevent sticking and add flavor!
2. Make the Cheesy Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant—this will enhance the flavor of your sauce!
3. Create the Roux:
Now it’s time to whisk in the flour, creating a roux. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the flour turns a light golden color. This step is crucial for thickening your sauce later.
4. Add the Milk:
Gradually whisk in the milk or cream while continuing to stir. Keep mixing until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble gently, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This creamy sauce is the heart of the dish!
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re using Gruyère cheese, add it now, too. Keep stirring until it’s fully melted and smooth.
6. Layer the Potatoes:
In your prepared baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the cheese sauce.
7. Add a Cheesy Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are tender when you pierce them with a fork.
9. Final Touches:
Once baked, let your scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help everything settle together nicely. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired for a nice touch!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes with a beautifully browned top and tender layers beneath! They’re perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet are great choices, you can also use red potatoes for a slightly waxy texture. Sweet potatoes make for a delicious, healthier twist if you’re feeling adventurous!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything the day before! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Scalloped Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until hot. If they seem dry, add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux, and ensure your cheese is gluten-free. The dish will still be delicious!
